My Town

Brentwood showcases the work of East Contra Costa artists

By Paula KingContra Costa Times

Posted:
01/09/2013 07:21:56 PM PST

Updated:
01/10/2013 11:47:16 AM PST

BRENTWOOD -- A novice artist could find much inspiration these days on the walls of the Brentwood Community Center. From instructions on how to create various pieces to decades of experience in a variety of media, the new Public Art Walls exhibition program is for both art admirers and aspiring artists alike.

Six artists and one community group are currently showcasing artistic creations in the Community Center. The media displayed through March 22 include photography, fiber, watercolor, oil and drawings.

Brentwood resident Virginia Chamberland helps budding artists to create detailed pencil or pen-and-ink drawings in stages. First, Chamberland photographs her subjects, then completes a pencil drawing and later transfers the image for the finished product.

"If you are a beginner, I hope my demonstrations here will help you get started," she wrote in a description along with her images of four different animals.

There will be four exhibits annually in the program with each lasting three months. The next exhibit will start in April.

The purpose of the free program is to improve access to the venue and highlight visual art, local artists, art organizations and community groups, according to Brentwood Recreation Manager Poldina Scherff. Hung on the second floor, the East Contra Costa Historical Society's banners include photos and interviews of local farmers.

"I think it is really nice that the city of Brentwood has put so much emphasis on art," Discovery Bay artist Louise Massante said. "It is something that can be put by the wayside if it is not actively promoted."

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As a fiber artist for a decade, Massante creates wall hangings through sewing. An example is her eastern view of Mount Diablo artwork that was inspired by the view in her backyard.

Bethel Island's John Nicolini creates oil and watercolor paintings, and has on display one titled "Wild Horses."

"It is a beautiful place (Community Center) and they are exhibiting several pieces of art," Nicolini said. "I paint about every day when I can."

As an oil painter for 45 years, Ken Tomlin of Oakley enhances local history by painting landmarks such as the John Marsh House and Marsh Creek.

The other artists are Discovery Bay photographer Bill Klipp and Pittsburg photographer Jolynn Lacasse. The exhibit is open to the public weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Artists who wish to display their work on the Public Arts Walls next year should submit applications in October. For more details, call 925-516-5364 or send an e-mail to pscherff@brentwoodca.gov.

Contact Paula King at 925-779-7174

If you go
What: Public Art Walls
Where: Brentwood Community Center, 35 Oak St., Brentwood
When: Weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through March 22; New show begins in April.
Info: 925-516-5364 or e-mail to pscherff@brentwoodca.gov